The role of “English Nature” inthe conservation of sites of stratigraphical and palaeontological interest

Abstract

“English Nature”, the Nature Conservancy Council for England, is responsible for geological conservation in England.Sister agencies fulfil similar roles in Wales and Scotland. The conservation of Earth science sites is of direct relevance to scientific research and to the training of Earth and environmental scientists and as a governmental body, “English Nature” has powers to designate and protect geological localities of national or international importance as Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) or National Nature Reserves (NNRs). In England, out of 1264 actual or proposed geological or geomorphological SSSIs or NNRs, there are around 1000 stated stratigraphical or palaeontological interests and out of these nearly 270 represent Jurassic rocks and faunas. Outside the SSSI network, the protection of sites lies for the most part in voluntary and county-sponsored activities supported by Earth science (and conservation) societies and institutions. These sites, known as RIGS (Regionally Important Geological and geomorphological Sites), are selected primarily on their local, rather than national importance. The role of “English Nature” in selecting, designating and conserving SSSIs and in initiating RIGS schemes helps safeguard English Jurassic localities as part of the national heritage, for future use by research workers and the general public alike.